Go Ahead, Burst My Bubble (Wrap)

By
Rebecca DiLiberto

March 21, 2017

Asian societies used worry beads, Catholics have rosaries, and for the rest of us, there’s Bubble Wrap. If you’ve ever wondered why popping those little air pockets into oblivion is so satisfying, consult the research of Kathleen M. Dillon. Dillon postulates that these ancient—and modern—forms of touch therapy function as tactile anxiety reducers. Her research showed that a group of undergraduate subjects given Bubble Wrap to pop felt calmer and more alert than a control group whose hands were left unoccupied. Unfortunately, Bubble Wrap will no longer be made due to new technology the company will utilize, so next time your anxiety threatens to grow out of control, take matters into your own hands and sneak something into your pocket that you can fidget with (keys, stress ball). How do you calm down when you’re feeling anxious? Share your secrets in the comments.